Photo: Terje Dokken
The 18-song set in 75 minutes held no spoken words until nearing its end. It might suggest an introverted, disengaging performance. But PJ Harvey defied expectations.
Presence is a curious thing. An artist’s power to draw you in and hold you is a natural, captivating force. And that’s precisely what Polly Jean Harvey embodies.
Last year, we witnessed the release of her long-awaited album, I Inside The Old Year Dying. Her two-night appearance at Sentrum Scene last autumn was a joyous reunion. This year, she graced the stage of Bergenfest before concluding her whirlwind Norwegian tour with a performance at Øyafestivalen 2024.
For 75 minutes, she spun pure magic. Delicate “Prayer At The Gate” and the slightly theatrical “The Nether-Edge” showcased her remarkable vocal range, soaring effortlessly into higher registers. “The Glorious Land” pulsated with energy, while “Let England Shake” featured a flavorful sitar addition. The audience was captivated, displaying respectful silence in contrast to the more challenging set by Susanne Sundfør the previous year.
The concert evolved throughout, with the artist delving into her rich catalog. “50ft Queenie” transformed the atmosphere, becoming an electric, fierce rendition from her 31-year-old album Rid Of Me. The only slight misstep belonged to James Johnston, whose shaker momentarily lost sync with the tempo. But the band seamlessly overcame this minor stumble.
The setlist spanned decades, encompassing tracks from her debut Dry album, including “Man-Size” and “Dress.” The entire journey was a testament to her evolution as a rocker, showcasing both her toughness and festival-friendly spirit. In the midst of the intensity, the delicate “The Desperate Kingdom Of Love” emerged, featuring PJ Harvey’s mesmerizing solo performance with an acoustic guitar. It was a magical moment.
Ultimately, PJ Harvey‘s masterpiece, To Bring You My Love, graced the closing moments. “Send His Love To Me,” “Down By The Water,” and the title track formed a captivating conclusion to an unforgettable performance.
The crown jewel of Øyafestivalen 2024, a work of undeniable brilliance.